CourageToChange - Tumblr Posts

Dear Journal,

Today feels different. For the first time, I'm not writing on paper. I didn't have the courage to open my usual journal, the one I've been writing in since 2016. It's strange, I know, but I think I'm afraid of what I might write. This moment in my life feels so important that I don't know how to put it into words.

It's August 31st, and everything is changing for me. I'm leaving my parents' house, my city, to live somewhere else, three hours away, in a new city, to start university. I'll meet new people there, and I'm both nervous and excited. Here, I've often felt a huge pressure, like something was suffocating me. As I leave, I’ve also decided to change my look: I cut my hair really short. It’s a big change, and I'm not sure if I love it yet, but I'm learning to accept myself as I am.

I have a feeling this year is going to be different, special. I'm excited to meet people who will change the way I see things, who will help me push past my fears and limits—the ones I've often set for myself. I want to become a better person, to give more love to those around me. That’s what really matters to me. Sometimes, I doubt myself, but I know I’m brave enough to become the person I want to be: more patient, stronger, and more confident. I want to walk with my head held high, to fake confidence until it becomes real. I know that if I believe in myself, I can achieve anything I want.

I trust God to help calm my fears, and I’m so grateful for everything He has given me: a loving family, a roof over my head, food to eat, and so much more. Sometimes, I forget how lucky I am. I have inner peace and a deep sense of gratitude. There are moments when I feel like I'm watching my life from the outside, like I'm living in a movie. And tonight, I realized that I’m really leaving, building something new, starting from scratch. It’s scary, but mostly, I feel thankful.

I know I’ll succeed this year. I’m ready to work hard to make my family proud. And even though I’m sometimes afraid of being alone, I know I’ll never really be alone. God is with me, right behind me, watching me smile and cry at the same time. I can’t wait to see what this new adventure holds.

xoxo, 𝓙.

Liberation: The Journey of "I Am Set Free" Shaina Tranquilino March 18, 2024

The quest for liberation and freedom is a common thread that binds us all. The phrase "I Am Set Free" carries profound significance, reflecting a personal and often transformative journey toward emancipation. Whether it be breaking free from societal expectations, personal limitations, or self-imposed constraints, the liberation encapsulated in these words is a celebration of the human spirit's resilience and capacity for growth.

The Path to Liberation:

The journey to uttering "I Am Set Free" is unique for each individual. It may begin with self-reflection, a realization that certain beliefs or behaviours have confined us for far too long. Liberation often demands the courage to confront these constraints head-on, questioning societal norms and challenging the status quo.

One might find themselves shedding the layers of expectations that have been draped upon them by society, family, or even their own fears. This process of self-discovery is akin to peeling away the layers of an onion, revealing the authentic self beneath. It requires a willingness to embrace vulnerability and confront uncomfortable truths, paving the way for true liberation.

Breaking Chains:

"I Am Set Free" often echoes in the moments when individuals break free from the chains of their past, allowing them to step into a new, uncharted territory. This could be leaving a toxic relationship, overcoming a personal trauma, or simply letting go of ingrained beliefs that no longer serve one's growth. Liberation comes in various forms, but the common thread lies in the act of breaking free from what no longer aligns with our true selves.

Embracing Change:

The journey towards freedom is marked by change. As one utters the words "I Am Set Free," they acknowledge the inevitability of change and the necessity of embracing it. Change is the catalyst for personal growth and evolution, and it often requires stepping into the unknown with open arms.

The Power of Authenticity:

"I Am Set Free" is a declaration of authenticity. It signifies the rejection of societal pressures to conform and the embrace of one's true identity. Liberation comes when we let go of the need for external validation and live in alignment with our values and passions.

"I Am Set Free" encapsulates a powerful narrative of personal triumph over adversity. It is a proclamation of autonomy and self-discovery, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As we navigate the intricate journey towards liberation, let these words be a mantra that reverberates through the core of our being, inspiring us to break free from the shackles that bind us and embrace the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

Embracing the Unknown: Honouring Life Changes Shaina Tranquilino May 11, 2024

Change is the only constant in life. We've all heard this adage countless times, yet when faced with significant shifts, we often find ourselves hesitating, held back by fear of the unknown. Whether it's starting a new job, moving to a new city, ending a relationship, or embarking on a new adventure, transitions can be daunting. However, it's precisely these moments of change that offer us the opportunity for growth, discovery, and transformation.

Anything worth doing in our lives inevitably comes with a certain level of fear attached to it. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unfamiliar – these emotions can paralyze us, preventing us from taking the necessary steps toward our goals and aspirations. Yet, if we allow ourselves to be consumed by fear, we risk stagnation and regret. Instead, we must learn to embrace change with open arms, recognizing it as an integral part of the human experience.

Honouring life changes means acknowledging the discomfort that comes with them and choosing to move forward despite it. It means accepting that growth often requires stepping outside of our comfort zones and into the realm of uncertainty. It's about trusting in ourselves and our ability to adapt, even when the path ahead seems unclear.

One of the most powerful ways to honour life changes is by cultivating a mindset of resilience and optimism. Rather than focusing on what could go wrong, focus on what could go right. Instead of dwelling on past failures, see them as valuable lessons that have brought you one step closer to where you are today. By shifting our perspective in this way, we can approach change with a sense of possibility rather than dread.

Another essential aspect of honouring life changes is practicing self-compassion. Change can be challenging, and it's okay to feel scared or overwhelmed at times. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate these transitions, and remember that it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement along the way.

Moreover, staying present in the moment can help alleviate anxiety about the future. Instead of getting caught up in "what ifs" and hypothetical scenarios, focus on the here and now. Take things one step at a time, celebrating each small victory along the way. By staying grounded in the present moment, you can cultivate a sense of gratitude for the journey, even amidst the uncertainty.

Ultimately, honouring life changes is about embracing the full spectrum of human experience – the highs and the lows, the triumphs and the challenges. It's about recognizing that growth often requires us to step into the unknown and trusting that we have the strength and resilience to navigate whatever comes our way.

So, the next time you find yourself facing a significant life change, remember this: Anything worth doing will likely stir up some fear within you. But instead of letting that fear hold you back, let it propel you forward. Embrace the uncertainty, lean into the discomfort, and trust that on the other side of change lies endless opportunity for growth, fulfillment, and joy.